Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Online giant Amazon is the latest retailer to sign up to take part in BHETA’s ( British Home Enhancement Trade Association) ‘Meet The Buyer Day’ initiative.
Amazon follows in the footsteps of past participants Homebase, Robert Dyas, John Lewis and Screwfix.
BHETA describes its latest proposed ‘Meet The Buyer Day’ as ‘a unique opportunity for existing and prospective Amazon suppliers to interact with this major retailer outside of the usual buying channels’.
The event is scheduled for September 11 at Amazon’s head office in Slough. Open exclusively to BHETA members, ‘it is dedicated to finding mutually beneficial trading opportunities which might not otherwise be recognised so quickly,’ BHETA said,
The brief from Amazon is focused on new, innovative and stylish products which will complement the company’s existing offer. Current suppliers are advised to present products outside those already listed.
Seven members of the Amazon buying team will be available for appointments, as well as the relevant heads of buying covering kitchen and dining, housewares, home decor, lighting, arts and crafts and electrical appliances.
A maximum of two supplier representatives can attend and meetings will last between 20 and 30 minutes.
Commenting on the event, BHETA’s Housewares Executive Director William Jones said: “Amazon is one of the most well-known and respected retailers in the UK with a loyal customer base and it is recognised for choice, style and quality.
“For such a significant player to work like this with the industry trade association is progressive and exciting – and shows just how successful BHETA’s Meet the Buyer initiatives are, for all parties.”
Head of Vendor Management: Home at Amazon.co.uk, Peter Masters added: “I’m very optimistic about the Meet The Buyer event and confident it will offer benefits to everyone who takes part.
“Obviously there are some fantastic new business opportunities, and a unique chance for Amazon to see not only what’s out there in terms of product potential but also to discuss new ideas that might be developed with the company’s involvement.
“It’s also useful for everyone to gain better knowledge of the buying process and timescales, to be in a position to develop the most appropriate pitch proposals, and to improve mutual understanding of strategy and future direction. I’m anticipating a significant turnout and a very busy day!”
BHETA members interested in taking part are advised to apply early; the deadline is July 19. For further information contact info@bheta.co.uk or visit the BHETA website www.bheta.co.uk.
